Introduction to functions and families of functions including quadratics, polynomials, power and root functions, transformations of these functions, and their use in solving applications problems.

Prerequisite: Satisfactory score on the mathematics placement test or MATH 105 or 108.

Co-requisite: None

Advisory: Demonstrated proficiency in English by placement into ENGL 1A as determined by score on the English placement test or through an equivalent placement process; UC credit for MATH 48A, B & C is limited to a maximum of 7.5 units for the combination or any portion of the series completed.

2. Course Objectives -

The student will be able to:

Examine the definition of a function and investigate the different forms of a function.

Understand and compute rates of change.

Compute a regression model and use it to make predictions.

Explore transformations of functions.

Investigate quadratic functions.

Explore higher-order polynomial functions.

Investigate power functions and relationship between direct and inverse variation.

Use technology such as graphing calculators and/or computer software to assist in solving problems involving any of the topics in (A) through (G) above.

Homework Problems: Homework problems covering subject matter from text and related material ranging from 30 - 60 problems per week. Students will need to employ critical thinking in order to complete assignments.

Lecture: Five hours per week of lecture covering subject matter from text and related material. Reading and study of the textbook, related materials and notes.

Projects: Student projects covering subject matter from textbook and related materials. Projects will require students to discuss mathematical problems,write solutions in accurate mathematical language and notation and interpret mathematical solutions. Projects may require the use of a computer algebra system such as Mathematica or MATLAB.

Worksheets: Problems and activities covering the subject matter.

Such problems and activities will require students to think critically. Such worksheets may be completed both inside and/or outside of class.

13. Need/Justification -

This course is a required core course for the AS degree in General Studies Science, a restricted support course for the Certificate of Achievement in Transfer Studies: CSU GE and satisfies the Foothill GE Requirement for Area V, Communication and Analytical Thinking.